XYZ is a triangle and XW is perpendicular to YZ at = W. If XZ = 5cm and WZ = 4cm, Calculate XY.
 

  • A 5\(\sqrt{3}\)cm
  • B 3\(\sqrt{5}\)cm
  • C 3\(\sqrt{3}\)cm
  • D 5cm
  • E 6cm
jamb 1984mathematics

The correct answer is B. 3\(\sqrt{5}\)cm

1. By Pythagoras' theorem, XW = 3 cm.

2. Also by Pythagoras' theorem, \(XY^2 = 6^2 + 3^2\).

3. \(XY^2 = 36 + 9 = 45\).

4. \(XY = \sqrt{45} = 3\sqrt{3}\).

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